KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 — The allocation for rural road projects will be increased to RM2.3 billion, compared to RM1.3 billion in 2022. 

In his Budget speech today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that a total of RM3.3 billion will be allocated for rural basic infrastructure projects, including the installation of village streetlights, community facilities, and clean water and electricity supply.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) is installing solar-powered streetlights in villages and rooftop solar panels at welfare homes and places of worship.

Electricity supply will also be improved at tahfiz schools, pondok religious schools and Orang Asli settlements. 

Additionally, the Madani administration has successfully facilitated an agreement between the Perak and Penang state governments through a 40-year Bulk Water Supply Agreement.

Access to clean water nationwide will continue to be improved through the National Non-Revenue Water (NRW) programme, with an allocation of RM2.5 billion.

The focus will be on replacing 1,900 kilometres of ageing, critical water pipes.